15 Exciting Things to Do in Newbridge: Where Kildare's Silver Heritage Shines

Newbridge sits along the banks of the River Liffey in County Kildare, just 45 minutes from Dublin but with a character all its own. Originally developed around a military barracks established in 1816, the town's name comes from the bridge built over the Liffey in the 13th century – though ironically, today's "new bridge" dates back to 1788 and is one of Ireland's oldest surviving examples of cast iron bridge construction.

Unlike many Leinster towns that grew organically over centuries, Newbridge's planned military origins gave it a distinctive grid layout that sets it apart. This heritage, combined with its silvermaking tradition dating back to 1934, has shaped Newbridge into a unique blend of historical significance and modern shopping destination.

Must-See Newbridge Attractions

Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre

The jewel in Newbridge's crown is undoubtedly the Silverware Visitor Centre, home to both manufacturing facilities and the Museum of Style Icons. The factory tour shows the meticulous craftsmanship behind Ireland's premier silverware, while the museum houses an impressive collection of memorabilia from stars like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and Princess Diana.

Visitor Info: Open daily 9am-6pm (5pm Sundays). Allow 2-3 hours for both factory tour and museum. Morning visits are best to see production in full swing at Newbridge Silverware.

Unlike the National Museum collections in Dublin, this privately-owned museum offers an intimate look at celebrity clothing and accessories you won't find elsewhere in Leinster.

Irish National Stud & Gardens

Just a short drive from town center, the Irish National Stud is where many of Ireland's champion racehorses are bred. The Japanese Gardens, created between 1906-1910, are among the finest in Europe, while the adjacent St. Fiachra's Garden celebrates Ireland's monastic heritage.

Visitor Info: Open daily Feb-Dec, 9:30am-5pm (last admission 4pm). Allow 3-4 hours to appreciate both stud and gardens fully. Spring visits coincide with foaling season.

While Kildare town claims this attraction by name, it's actually positioned between both towns and is easily accessible from Newbridge.

Liffey Linear Park

This peaceful riverside park stretches for 2km along the Liffey, offering paved walking paths, seating areas, and fishing spots. The park connects the town center with residential areas and provides a tranquil escape from urban bustle.

Visitor Info: Open year-round, best enjoyed during daylight hours. Allow 30-60 minutes for a leisurely stroll. Particularly beautiful in autumn when leaves change color.

When compared to the Grand Canal walkways in Sallins or the River Barrow paths in Athy, Newbridge's Liffey Linear Park offers a more accessible and family-friendly experience with better facilities.

Whitewater Shopping Centre

As Kildare's largest shopping center, Whitewater offers over 60 retail outlets, dining options, and a multiplex cinema. While primarily a shopping destination, its central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the town.

Visitor Info: Open daily (reduced hours Sundays). Allow 2-3 hours for shopping and dining. Weekday mornings are quietest for a relaxed experience.

Newbridge Town Hall & Library

The Town Hall, dating from 1851, exemplifies Victorian architecture and now houses a modern library and community space. Regular exhibitions, readings, and events make this a cultural hub for locals and visitors alike.

Visitor Info: Library open Mon-Sat (closed Sundays). Check their events calendar for special exhibitions. Allow 30-60 minutes for a visit.

The building survived a major fire in the 1990s that locals still talk about – the restoration work revealed original features covered for decades.

Hidden Gems in Newbridge

Liffey Banks Anglers' Spots

While the Liffey Linear Park is well-known, the dedicated fishing spots along the river are local secrets. Newbridge has some excellent brown trout fishing stretches that even many Kildare residents don't know about.

Local anglers recommend the area near the Athgarvan Road bridge, where deep pools hold surprisingly large trout. You'll need a fishing license, available online or at local tackle shops.

Old Connell Weir and Lock

Just outside town on the Liffey lies the Old Connell Weir and Lock, remnants of when the Liffey was briefly made navigable in the late 18th century. The ambitious canal project ultimately failed, but left behind this scenic spot where locals swim on hot summer days.

What tourists don't know: this spot inspired scenes in "The Island," a novel by Leinster writer Mary Stanley. The small island formed by the weir was once reached by a footbridge that washed away during floods in the 1980s, still remembered by older residents.

St. Conleth's Cemetery War Graves

While Newbridge's military history is well-documented, few visitors discover the war graves section in St. Conleth's Cemetery. These immaculately maintained plots hold soldiers from both World Wars, including some who died at the nearby Curragh Camp hospital.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission maintains these sites, and local school children place wreaths here annually on Remembrance Day – a tradition that quietly continues despite changing politics.

Newbridge College Dominican Grounds

The expansive grounds of Newbridge College, founded in 1852 by the Dominican Order, contain peaceful gardens and woodland walks rarely discovered by visitors. While respecting school activities, parts of the grounds are accessible and offer a tranquil retreat.

Ask locals about the "fairy tree" – a distinctive old hawthorn that generations of students have associated with good luck before exams.

Newbridge Event Calendar

Spring

Newbridge Spring Festival (April) - A week-long celebration featuring local music, art exhibitions, and community events throughout town. The festival often includes themed historical walks revealing aspects of Newbridge's military and industrial past.

June Fest (Late May/Early June) - This multi-disciplinary arts festival spreads across Newbridge and neighboring towns with music performances, theater, literary events, and visual arts. The Riverbank Arts Centre serves as the main hub, but pop-up venues appear throughout town.

Summer

Curragh Derby Festival (June/July) - While the racing happens at the nearby Curragh, Newbridge becomes a hub of activity with visitors, special restaurant offerings, and racing-themed events in local pubs.

Newbridge Agricultural Show (July) - A traditional country show with livestock competitions, equestrian events, home crafts, and local food producers. Held on the outskirts of town, this event connects Newbridge to its rural surroundings.

Autumn

Kildare Readers Festival (October) - Centered around Newbridge Library, this literary festival brings authors for readings, workshops, and discussions. The intimate settings allow genuine interaction with writers rarely found at larger festivals.

Newbridge Silverware Autumn Fashion Show (September) - A showcase of new jewelry designs alongside fashion from the center's retail partners. Unlike Dublin fashion events, these often feature local models and have a community atmosphere.

Winter

Christmas in Newbridge (December) - The town's Christmas lights switch-on involves local schools, brass bands, and community groups. The Whitewater Shopping Centre hosts a Santa's grotto that locals consider superior to Dublin offerings.

Riverbank Arts Centre Winter Program (November-February) - The arts center ramps up its offering during darker months with theater, comedy, and film screenings. Their "Newbridge on Stage" series specifically showcases local performing talent.

Family Activities in Newbridge

Liffey Valley Adventure Centre

Located just outside town, this outdoor activity center offers kayaking, climbing walls, archery, and team challenges suitable for children from age 7 upward. The purpose-built facilities include safety equipment and qualified instructors.

Best for: Active families with children aged 7-16 who enjoy physical challenges.

Newbridge Town Park Playground

Recently upgraded, this central playground includes equipment for different age groups, wheelchair-accessible features, and plenty of seating for supervising adults. The adjacent skate park attracts older children and teenagers.

Best for: Families with children under 12, especially good for mixed age groups.

Riverbank Arts Centre Children's Program

The arts center runs regular workshops, performances, and film screenings designed explicitly for children. Their school holiday programs are particularly good, offering creative activities across multiple art forms.

Best for: Culturally-curious families with children aged 4-12.

Whitewater Cinema

When the Irish weather inevitably turns, the multiplex cinema provides a reliable indoor option. They offer special family screenings on weekend mornings with reduced prices and adjusted sound levels for younger viewers.

Best for: All-weather entertainment suitable for all ages.

Newbridge Sports Centre

The community sports center offers family swim times, parent-child exercise classes, and open sessions in various sports. The facility includes a swimming pool, sports hall, and fitness studio.

Best for: Active families, perfect for introducing younger children to swimming and basic sports.

Local Newbridge Business Highlights

Judge Roy Beans

This award-winning pub and restaurant on Main Street combines traditional elements with contemporary menu offerings. Known for excellent stone-baked pizzas and craft beers, it's where locals actually go rather than the tourist-oriented pubs.

Don't miss: The Judge Roy Beans signature Curragh Burger topped with Cashel Blue cheese and bacon jam – a nod to local racing heritage.

Harrigan's Farm Shop & Café

Located on the Dublin Road, this family-run business showcases local produce, artisan foods, and homemade baked goods. The café serves breakfast and lunch using ingredients from their own and neighboring farms.

Don't miss: Their "Kildare Breakfast Box" – a perfect gift containing locally-produced bacon, sausages, black pudding, eggs, and bread.

Newbridge Vintage

Tucked away on George's Street, this carefully curated vintage clothing and homewares shop has become a destination for fashion-conscious shoppers across Leinster. The owner sources unique pieces from Ireland and abroad, focusing on quality and wearability.

Don't miss: Their collection of reworked vintage Aran sweaters that give traditional Irish knitwear a contemporary twist.

O'Rourke's Bakery

A fourth-generation family bakery operating since 1937, O'Rourke's maintains traditional baking methods while adapting to contemporary tastes. Their sourdough bread has won national awards, and locals queue for their fresh batch bread every morning.

Don't miss: Their malt bread – made to a recipe unchanged since the bakery opened and perfect with a strong cup of tea.

Visit Newbridge

Newbridge offers a distinctive blend of heritage attractions, outdoor activities, cultural events, and retail therapy that makes it worth more than the day trip many visitors allocate. By combining well-known destinations like the Silverware Visitor Centre with local secrets such as the riverside fishing spots, you'll experience the authentic character of this Kildare town beyond the shopping center that often dominates visitor perceptions.

Whether you're interested in Ireland's equestrian heritage, military history, or simply seeking a less touristy alternative to Dublin's attractions, Newbridge rewards those willing to explore beyond Main Street with genuine Leinster experiences and warm local hospitality.

Check out our guide about things to do in Portlaoise.